Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Watermill Village Day Tour
4.9 / 5 · 32 traveler reviews
Discover the natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this comprehensive day trip from Zagreb. Explore the enchanting Rastoke village, known for its charming watermills and scenic paths, before immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of Plitvice. Enjoy a guided tour through the park's wooden pathways, capturing views of cascading waterfalls and tranquil lakes. - Full-day tour of Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Village from Zagreb - Scenic walking paths and boat rides through stunning natural landscapes - Marvel at the vivid turquoise waters that change color with the light - Learn about Croatia’s history, culture, geography, and natural wonders
Your experience
Stop 1
7:45–8:15 AM Your day begins as you meet at the meeting point in Zagreb. You’ll board by a bus, and your guide will provide an overview of the day’s itinerary along with interesting facts about the destinations you’ll be visiting.
Stop 2
10:00 - 10.40 Approximately 90 minutes into your journey, we will arrive at the picturesque village of Rastoke, often referred to as the "Little Plitvice." Tucked away amidst Croatia’s rolling hills and lush greenery, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat, with crystal-clear rivers flowing through quaint streets and cascading into beautiful waterfalls. Wander through the village’s charming cobblestone paths, capturing photos of the enchanting waterfalls and centuries-old watermills that once powered the village. The soothing sound of flowing water and the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape create a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Take a moment to unwind and enjoy a coffee break at one of the cozy riverside cafés, where you can soak in the serene atmosphere before we continue your adventure to the main highlight of the day.
Stop 3
11.00 - 15.00 Welcome to your adventure at Plitvice Lakes National Park! Step into this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll begin your walking tour by following the well-marked wooden paths that lead you through lush forests and along the edges of crystal-clear lakes. As you stroll, your guide will share fascinating stories about the park’s unique geological formations and the diverse flora and fauna that thrive here. Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional glimpse of wildlife; you might spot a rare bird or a deer darting through the trees! You’ll have the chance to experience a boat ride across Kozjak, the largest lake in the park. This is the perfect time to capture some stunning photos and truly appreciate the tranquility of this natural oasis. After the boat ride, you’ll hop on a panoramic train that will take you to some of the park’s most iconic viewpoints. Are you ready to begin this unforgettable experience? Let’s dive into the magic of Plitvice Lakes!
Stop 4
After a day spent immersed in nature, relax and unwind on the comfortable bus as you travel back to Zagreb.
What’s included
- Licensed guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Guided tour of Plitvice Lakes
- Visit to Rastoke Village
Not included
- Entry ticket for Plitvice Lakes National Park (we will pre-book it for you)
- Food and drinks
- Tips
- Entrance ticket for Plitvice National Park Adults April - May
- Entrance ticket for Plitvice National Park Adults June - September
Meeting and pickup
Meet at the bus stop across from the Ethnographic Museum Zagreb.
Trg Ante Starčevića 1
Before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Some of the park may be restricted and is weather dependent.
- This tour will still operate in all weather conditions.
- Please note that from November 1st through March 31st, only Lower Lakes can be visited, and depending on weather conditions, the train and electric boats do not operate.
- Pick-up details you will receive day before departure
- Your guide will be available to assist you throughout the entire trip and guide you through the park.
- Approx. 8.5km (5.3mil) walk is the length of the walking tour in the park (highseason). You will see all the highlights, and don’t worry there are no big inclines so it’s an enjoyable walk.
- Bring passport or ID card
- Copy and paste link into your browser for a virtual walk https://bit.ly/4g26dWK
- In off season the tour lasts less than 10 hours
- Guests with serious health conditions should avoid this activity
- Entrance fee:
- April - May & October 2026 = Adults: 21€, Students: 13€, Children: 6€
- June - September 2026= Adults: 40€, Students: 25€, Children: 15€
- November - March 2026: Adults: 10€, Students: 6€, Children: 4€
- Tickets are not included in the price, but we will reserve them for you so you can enter the time slot with the group, as tickets can sometimes be sold out at planned entry time (don’t purchase the ticket on your own)
- We will send you a message with your exact start time the day before the tour, usually between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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